From Queen’s Park by Sylvia Jones MPP — Remembrance Day services will be held throughout Dufferin-Caledon

November 4, 2015 · 0 Comments

Every year Canadians come together Nov. 11 to mark the end of World War I.
This year also marks the 100th anniversary of the writing of Lt. Col. John McCrae’s iconic poem In Flanders Fields and is the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II.
Many nations across the world observe the tradition of remembrance Nov. 11, including the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth nations. Elsewhere around the world, Nov. 11 is marked as Veteran’s Day, Armistice Day and Independence Day. For many Canadians, Remembrance Day is significant, as we give thanks to those who have defended the rights and privileges we enjoy in Canada.
More than 2.3 million Canadians have served in our armed forces during our nation’s history, and more than 118,000 have sacrificed their lives defending Canada. Throughout our nation’s history, Canada has participated in some of the most significant military events worldwide; World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and more recently in the Gulf War, in Afghanistan and in a multitude of peacekeeping missions.
To show your appreciation for those who have served and continue to serve in our armed forces, please purchase a poppy from your local Royal Canadian Legion volunteer. We have three Legions in Dufferin-Caledon, in Shelburne, Orangeville and Alton. Poppies are available in a wide variety of locations, including my offices, until Nov. 11. All donations from the poppy campaign go toward providing support to ex-service members and their families.
Ceremonies for Remembrance Day take place in many communities across Canada. There are a number of services across Dufferin-Caledon during the week leading up to Remembrance Day. The Alton Legion and the Bolton BIA will hold a service Nov. 8.
Nov. 11, parades and services will include the Shelburne Legion, the Orangeville Legion, the Town of Grand Valley, employees at the Town of Caledon and the Mansfield Women’s Institute at the Mansfield cenotaph. I had the opportunity to attend two ceremonies over the weekend in the Town of Caledon at Town Hall, and at Mono Mills, where I was honoured to lay the provincial wreath. I will also be attending the service at the Shelburne Legion, the Alton Legion, and the Bolton BIA service. Please come out and show your support for our veterans and for those who are currently serving both at home and abroad.
The significant military milestones that we are commemorating this year serve as a reminder of the sacrifice of our fallen and honouring the service of our veterans past and present. I want to thank all who have served our country and currently serve our nation to defend our democracy. Lest we forget.